How To Plan A Perfect, Stress Free Vacation, Part 3 Of 3

So, you planned a great vacation months ago, have made all of the advance travel preparations, and now you're counting down the days.

You should have a pretty complete list by now, of items to pack and last minute things to do (you did start your list a week ago, right?). You'll probably want to include the items on the list below.

Bathing suits, sunscreen, hats
Comfortable walking shoes
Laundry bag or garbage bag for dirty clothes
Extra pair of glasses, or prescription in case you lose or break your primary pair
Chargers for your electronic devices such as cell phone, computer, etc.
If you're traveling overseas, you'll need electrical adapters
International or USA maps of the area you'll be visiting

Some of the things to consider when packing include the following,

Leave valuable jewelry and other items at home.
If you lock your luggage, you'll need to use locks that are approved by TSA.
Clothes are less likely to wrinkle if you roll them rather than folding them.
Don't over stuff your bags. If your luggage is selected for a random search, you want it to close back up easily. Also, bags over 50 pounds will cost extra to transport.

My trip planner recommendations for packing your carry on luggage,

Things to keep you (and your kids) occupied, such as books, magazines, mp3 players.
Phone numbers for your credit card company, travel agency, etc.
Copy of your full itinerary.
Cash, ATM and credit cards, and travelers checks(make sure they're signed before you leave).
Medications, in original prescription bottles.
Any valuables that are small enough to pack.
Sunglasses, you might need them once you arrive at your destination.
Documentation, including drivers license, health insurance cards, etickets, cruise documents, and passport, immunization records, visa, work permit if your travel will be international
Bathing suit and a change of clothes, in case your luggage is lost
Personal care items, remember that liquids must be in 3 oz (or less) clear containers and stored in a quart sized plastic zip bag
Snacks (drinks are not allowed through security, but you can buy them once you're through and bring them on board)
Have the kids pack their own carry on bags. They know what they like. I always take a look once they're done to make sure they've planned well.

Almost ready to leave!
Are you ready to go? Almost! Before leaving be sure to
Unplug major electronics such as TVs, computers, modems, stereos to prevent damage in the case of a severe electrical storm
Turn down the temperature on your water heater to save energy while you're gone
Disconnect electric garage door openers
Water the plants
Turn on porch light
Turn your air conditioning to 85 if it's summer and your heat to 50 if it's winter
Disconnect or turn off the water source to washing machine, to prevent flooding in case of a burst hose
Double check that iron, coffee pos, stove, etc. are turned off
Lock your doors and windows, and set your house alarm if you have one

Time to Relax, Finally!

If you've used this trip planner, you'll be able to relax, happy to know that you've planned well and taken everything into consideration. No worries, mon! Have a spectacular vacation!